A gripping graphic novel looks at four infamous days in our history



The story of prisoners' stand at Attica in 1971

A gripping graphic novel looks at four infamous days in our history


Big Black: Stand at Attica

This graphic novel, written from an ex-prisoner's point-of-view, Frank Big Black Smith, is a raw and powerful look at the four days of uprising at the Attica State Prison in upstate NY. The illustrations are graphic and, at times, horrific. Inhumane treatment of the prisoners, constant racial slurs, and the views of our government at the time will make you cringe…and think.

This is a must-read for all teens and adults. 

It shows the stark reality of just how prejudice has affected this country from the top to the bottom.  A great opener to all kinds of discussions that are difficult but should absolutely be had with your kids.

Publisher Simon and Schuster post on their site: “In the summer of 1971, the New York’s Attica State Prison is a symbol of everything broken in America – abused prisoners, rampant racism and a blind eye turned towards the injustices perpetrated on the powerless. But when the guards at Attica overreact to a minor incident, the prisoners decide they’ve had enough – and revolt against their jailers, taking them hostage and making demands for humane conditions. 

READ MORE: The Graphic Novel - Modern Stories in Pictures

Frank “Big Black” Smith finds himself at the center of this uprising, struggling to protect hostages, prisoners, and negotiators alike. But when the only avenue for justice seems to be negotiating with ambitious Governor Nelson Rockefeller, Big Black soon discovers there may be no hope in finding a peaceful resolution for the prisoners in Attica.”

I read this book from cover to cover in just one sitting. 

The story is compelling and truly makes one think about how we treat people who are different from us today. These men experienced horrific torture at the hands of police. All they really wanted was to be treated humanely. With one shower a week, a bar of soap and roll of toilet paper a month, they were hardly able to live with dignity at all. 

With all the political unrest and social injustice in our country right now, we need to see more books like this.

You can buy this book on Simon and Schuster or Amazon.

Find Big Black: Stand at Attica on Facebook and Twitter

About the authors:

Frank “Big Black” Smith was a prisoner at Attica State Prison in 1971. He, along with other prisoners, led a rebellion against the injustices of the prison system which remains one of the bloodiest civil rights confrontations in American history. After the riots, he became one of the leading voices in the court case the prisoners brought against the state of New York.

Jared Reinmuth. has worked as an actor, writer, teacher, director and songwriter. He began his collaboration with Frank “Big Black” Smith in 1997 while assisting his step-father, famed Attica attorney Dan Meyers. In 2017 he paired up with Pearl Battle Smith and artist Ameziane to create Big Black: Stand at Attica.

Bios from Simon and Schuster website and book




Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Save a life from stroke

    Tips from the American Stroke Association

    Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age – even young people. Despite being one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, strokes are largely preventable, treatable and beatable – if you can control your risk factors. read more »
  • Take steps now to protect your vision

    Regular eye exams are the best thing you can do

    Your quality of life and overall well-being depend on developing healthy habits. These practices are essential to your eye health. read more »
  • How women experience heart disease differently

    Symptoms are not always obvious

    Most people think of heart attacks as debilitating pain in the chest. However, that’s not always the case, especially for women, and missing the signs can be a matter of life and death. read more »
  • Serve a simple pasta salad this summer

    A quick and easy dish your family will love

    Some summertime dishes are just too good to be true. This Easy Pasta Salad is simple enough to become a favorite side and filling enough to serve as a light main course. read more »
  • Combatting Cracked Concrete

    Causes of failing concrete and how to solve them

    Concrete is a strong, durable and easy-to-maintain material that is popular for driveways, walkways, patios and more. Like most materials, though, it can inevitably wear down over time. read more »
  • A Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your Own Oil

    It's easier than you think

    Changing your vehicle’s oil is a crucial maintenance task that can extend its life and improve performance. It’s also a task many DIYers can handle on their own with just a few tools. read more »
  • Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit

    Time to make a warm and inviting outdoor retreat

    A firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. read more »
  • Phones Down, Eyes Up™

    Campaign to reduce distractions and increase water safety

    May’s National Water Safety Month, the campaign aims to reduce distractions and improve water safety awareness, specifically targeting families as they head to pools and waterfronts this summer. read more »
  • Enjoy a light summer lunch

    Make broccoli the star of this dish

    Try this broccoli salad. It makes an ideal light lunch or simple summer side. read more »
  • Turn a Favorite Spring Veggie into a Stellar Soup

    Carrots are the star of this dish

    If you’re in need of a soup outside the usual mushroom or celery varieties, turn to another springtime favorite: carrots. read more »